Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu has said, peace is the fundamental pre-requisite for progress.Addressing the Indian Diaspora in the French capital Paris last night, Mr Naidus aid, throughout its history, India has always been a voice for peace and non-violence.He said, in an interdependent world, the only path that could lead to progress is through dialogue.

Lauding the contributions of the diaspora, the Vice President said, persons of Indian origin and Indians abroad have excelled in many areas of French public life,with many as members in the French Parliament as well as in the European Parliament.

Mr Naidu also asserted that the story of India is an unfolding and a promising one. He said, bold reforms agenda of the government is transforming the economic landscape of the country.

Mr Naidu invited the members of Indian Diaspora to take active participation in the creation of New India. He also talked about the joint efforts of India and France to promote the use of clean energy by way of International Solar Alliance.

The Vice President is in Paris to represent India at the activities commemorating the centenary of the Armistice of World War. He will inaugurate Indian War Memorial at Villers Guislain today. More than 50 countries and their representatives are expected to participate in the centenary activities. The main ceremony at Arc de Triomphe monument will be presided over by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Participation of India, one of largest contributors of soldiers during World War – I, will be a befitting tribute to the sacrifices made by the soldiers. It will also underline India’s historical contribution to global peace and security.